Keep Track of Your Investments

Whether you work with a stockbroker or adviser or you trade on your own, you should always monitor your investments. By keeping an eye on your investments, you can prevent minor mistakes from turning into big problems. You can protect yourself by taking the following steps:

  • Read and keep all documents that you receive from your stockbroker, mutual fund or investment adviser. Check to make sure your confirmations and account statements are accurate.
  • Keep good notes of communications with your stockbroker or adviser. Taking notes when you’re talking to your stockbroker or adviser will help if there is a problem.
  • Get all confirmations and account statements sent directly to you. If you can’t look after your own investments, get copies of these documents sent to someone you trust, such as a family member, lawyer or accountant so that there is always a pair of independent eyes looking after you.
  • If you don’t get account statements or confirmations, follow up. You have a right to this information. If you are not receiving these documents on a regular basis, that could be a sign of trouble.
  • Keep good notes of communications with your stockbroker or adviser. Taking notes when you’re talking to your stockbroker or adviser will help if there is a problem.
  • Get all confirmations and account statements sent directly to you. If you can’t look after your own investments, get copies of these documents sent to someone you trust, such as a family member, lawyer or accountant so that there is always a pair of independent eyes looking after you.
  • If you don’t get account statements or confirmations, follow up. You have a right to this information. If you are not receiving these documents on a regular basis, that could be a sign of trouble.
  • Ask questions about any information you receive about your investments. If you don’t understand something, ask questions. If investments that you did not authorize appear on your confirmations or account statements, contact your stockbroker or adviser at once. Don’t wait to see how the investments perform.
  • Even if you don’t trade online, consider getting online access to your account. Online access to your account allows you to review your account whenever you want. You can verify information that you received from your stockbroker or adviser or in your confirmations or account statements. You also may be able to request that your confirmations and account statements be sent to you via email.
  • Do not make checks or other payments payable to your stockbroker, adviser or another individual for an investment. In most cases, money should only be sent to your brokerage firm, its clearing firm, or another financial institution.
  • Meet with your stockbroker and visit the firm, if possible. Investments are a major financial undertaking and should be afforded the same degree of investigation and caution as any other major purchase you might make.
  • Conduct independent research on your investments. Ideally, you should independently verify information by thoroughly reading prospectuses, research reports, offering materials, annual reports (Form 10-K), quarterly reports (Form 10-Q), and other filings that a company makes with the SEC. SEC filings, such as Forms 10-K and 10-Q, can be accessed on the SEC Web site. (www.sec.gov).
  • Periodically review your portfolio. Make sure the securities in your account still meet your investment objectives. Also, make sure you understand and are comfortable with the risks, costs, and liquidity of your investments. As part of this review, you may want to check the information that is on file at your brokerage firm regarding your accounts, such as new account agreements, margin account agreements, option account agreements, discretionary account agreements, and any correspondence to you. You have a right to know what is on file about you and the firm’s records must accurately reflect important information about you such as your age, income, net worth, financial status, long-term goals, and investment objectives.

Know your rights

If you think that you may have been the victim of securities fraud, you should have your claim evaluated by a qualified professional. If you fail to make a claim within a specified period of time, any claims under both state and federal law may be barred and forever lost, and your dispute may not be eligible for arbitration.

Downward sloping chart over dollarsNot all losses in the stock market are the result of wrongful activity by your stockbroker. Customers often are unable to recognize that they have been the victim of securities fraud, and most cases are uncovered by a person’s accountant, attorneys, family members, or other stockbrokers. Have your case evaluated by a professional and learn the time limitation that you have to bring your particular claim.

Know your stockbroker

If you receive an unsolicited telephone call from a person offering you investment advice, and you never heard of that person of their firm, simply say that you are not interested and hang up the telephone. Those seeking to double their money in the stock market ought to be prepared to lose it all, and of course, if it sounds too good to be true, it definitely is.

Never be pressured into making hasty investment decisions. Find out about your stockbroker and their brokerage firm before you do business with that person. The NASD makes available, through its public disclosure program, information regarding the existence of customer arbitrations, administrative or regulatory proceedings, and other disclosable events concerning your stockbroker and their brokerage firm.

Ask the stockbroker for the basis of the recommendation, and ask the stockbroker, the following questions: How long have they been a stockbroker? Where were they employed prior to joining their current firm? Have they ever been the subject of a customer complaint or arbitration? What formal training or education do they have? Has their firm ever been barred from doing business in any state? Does the firm make a market in these securities? What is the firm’s commission schedule? Are these securities being sold with a mark-up? Has the firm provided investment banking services or acted as an underwriter for the Company? Is information regarding the Company publicly available from the SEC? Is the Company listed on a national securities exchange? What is the name of your immediate supervisor?FINRA brokercheck

Know Your Investment Objective.

Those seeking to double their money in the stock market better be prepared to lose it all. Know you investment objective. Are you looking for long term growth, capital preservation, income or speculation? Make sure that you know what you investment objective is, and ask your stockbroker how the particular securities that are being recommended to you fulfill that objective. If your investment objectives are anything but speculation, be wary of in and out activity in your account, trading on margin, or purchasing non-NASDAQ, over-the-counter securities.

Take Notes

If you are solicited to purchase securities, you should keep a record of the date and time of the call, the name of the person calling, the firm that they are with, and the general substance of the conversation including what particular securities they are recommending and why. Similarly, if you are calling your stockbroker to obtain information regarding your account, you should note the date and time of your call, and the substance of your conversation, including, most importantly, when a stockbroker dissuades you from selling stock, or induces you to purchase more stock. Good records of communications with your stockbroker are particularly important when complaining about, or questioning, unauthorized transactions or unauthorized transactions on margin.

Save Important Documents

Customers should always save important documents. New account forms, margin agreements, or option agreements are obviously important documents. However, research reports, prospectuses, sales literature, and correspondence are also important documents that should be saved and are very important should you later decide to bring an action against the stockbroker. Judge with Pen and gavelSometimes customers sign, or are asked to sign, new account forms or option agreements without completing all the requested information. Often the stockbroker volunteers to complete this information for you. Be careful. In many instances a stockbroker may intentionally misstate your investment objective, investment experience, or financial condition, after you have signed the form to conceal or justify inappropriate activity. In cases involving churning, the sale of unsuitable investments, or the fraudulent use of a margin account, your investment objective, investment experience, and financial condition are very important. Never sign blank forms, and always keep a copy of whatever you sign before sending it to your stockbroker.

Take Action

If you think that you have been the victim of securities fraud, you should consult qualified counsel. Customer statements may be difficult to understand, especially where there is margin activity, and many customers are unaware that they have been the victims of securities fraud, until it is discovered by their tax professionals, attorneys, family members, or other stockbrokers.

If you suspect that you may have been a victim of securities fraud, you should, however, act quickly. Although disputes are eligible for arbitration if they relate to conduct occurring within six years from the date of the claim, claims under the federal securities laws must be brought within one year from the date of discovery, or three years from the date of occurrence, whichever is shorter. Under the laws of most states, claims for state securities fraud, common law fraud, or breach of fiduciary duty, must be brought within two years from the date of discovery upon the exercise of reasonable diligence. If you fail to act your claim may be forever lost. Moreover, if you fail to act, particularly with respect to unauthorized trading, trading in speculative securities, or trading on margin, you may be deemed to have condoned or ratified your stockbroker’s conduct and may not be able to obtain relief.

If you think you have been the victim of securities fraud, you should contact us for a free initial consultation. All matters handled on a contingent fee basis.

OUR PRACTICE AREAS

FINRA Arbitration

The litigation of individual and group investor claims against securities broker-dealers and investment professionals adjuducated in arbitration before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

Defective Financial Products

Alternative Investments, Promissory Notes, Structured Products, High Yield Bond Funds, Non-Marketable Real Estate Investment Trusts, Inverse and Leveraged ETFs,  the Failure to Conduct Due Diligence.

Unsuitable Investments

Speculative or High Risk Investment Recommendations, Unsuitable Investment Strategies, Low Priced Securities, Customer Specific Unsuitability, Inappropriate Investment Recommendations.

Stockbroker Misconduct

Breach of Fiduciary Duty, Churing, Unauthorized Trading, Fraud, Stockbroker Theft, Ponzi Schemes, the Sale of Unapprovied investments.

"First Name I Would Mention"
    

I had questions and sought a consultation regarding what I believed to have been inappropriate treatment by my brokerage firm. He took the time to give me a clear understanding of what was involved and clearly described next steps to resolve the matter. He did this in a concise, complete and friendly manner. Although in the scheme of things my matter was small. From what I have seen, if I ever had need of a securities lawyer or was asked to refer one to a friend, Nicholas would undoubtedly be the first name I would mention.

Keith (Avvo)
"Upstanding"
    

I had a problem with a dishonorable Financial Adviser! So I contacted Mr. Guiliano to see what I could do. Nick said I can't very well charge you for something you can do on your own! Then proceeded to tell me what to do. Because of the short amount of time and my untrustworthy financial adviser's not crossing tee's and dotting I's my life's savings is in the process of being transferred into 3 separate accounts. One's that will work best for me. Instead of one account that kept my money out of my reach! You will have a hard time finding a more upstanding Attorney then Mr. Guiliano!

Walter (Avvo)
"Successful in Achieving Results"
    

I was the one who contacted Nick through his website as my ex-wife had little or no knowledge of investments, and depended completely on the advice of the investment firm. Without specifics I can say that Nick (and his wife) were not only successful in achieving results in the case, but in the process were all that one could expect (and more) as shown in my overall ratings above. I would highly recommend him.

Joe S. (Avvo)
Excellent Attorney!

Nick represented my wife and I in a recent lawsuit. He was the best attorney we have ever used! Communication was great, he kept us updated regularly, he explained everything in great detail, gave us all our options, and most importantly we always felt he represented our best interest throughout the entire process. We would highly recommend Nick!

Brian F. (Avvo)

"One In A Million"
    

Nicholas is extremely knowledgeable regarding many facets of the sometimes complicated securities business. This comes from his first hand experience in the business prior to his decision to practice law. Nick is also very dedicated to staying abreast of the ever changing environment that is so prevalent in the investment world. Combine that with his drive and determination to get things done and you have one in a million!!!

Anthony S. (Avvo)
"Excellent Expertise In Securities Fraud"
    
Nick handled a securities fraud case for me. He is an expert in this field. He is extremely responsive with all forms of communication. Very competent and professional.
"Very Good To Work With"
    

My case was taken on a contingency basis. Even though it lasted about two years, the Guiliano law firm kept in contact with me, continued to research the case and brought it to a successful conclusion. They were very supportive of me in my first such experience and were very good to work with.

"Somebody you want on your side"
    

Personable and professional, he is the one to go to when investors are defrauded by Brokerage houses and Investment banks. Somebody you want on your side when things go wrong. He takes personal interest in every case and tries his best. Although I could not recover all my losses due to Fed/SEC action which was beyond his control, I would give Mr. Guiliano full marks on every count. He even worked with my accountants to help me write off losses due to fraud.

Ashok N. (Avvo)
"We are so very grateful"
    

My husband and I were lucky to find Nick after losing a substantial amount of money due to poor investing from a prominent company. He made us feel at ease right away and was always accessible for questions and concerns. Nick and his team were wonderful with gathering up all the pertinent information needed for our case, constantly in contact with us, answering all of our questions, which helped to make the process a lot less stressful. We are so very grateful to have had The Guiliano Law Firm represent us and the fact that they did it on a contingency basis made it possible to follow through. If not for them, we would never have been able to pursue this, financially or emotionally.

Stacey B. (Avvo)
"Man Of Integrity"
    

Nick is an incredibly decent Atty. He's a man of integrity, fairness, and honesty. You could see that it's wasn't just me who noticed, it was opposing counsel, at the end of the Zoom! I'm completely impressed with Nick and will keep him in my prayers. Thanks again!

"Fights for his clients like a bull dog"
    

I contacted Nicholas Guiliano for my 90 year old mother, who lives in Oregon to assist her in recovering from an unscrupulous financial manager who talked her into investing in some very high risk and speculative securities to reap high commissions. Mr Guiliano worked very hard to recover what he could for my mother. He is the best and fights for his clients like a bull dog to uphold their rights and protect their interests. I highly recommend Mr Guiliano and his firm when it comes to securities issues.

"Finest Litigation Attorneys"
    

I have been a Corporate Counsel for over 30 years having worked with Banks and large public companies. Nick is one of the finest litigation attorneys in the country.

Anthony P. (Google Business)
"Best Of The Best"
    

I have employed Nick Guiliano personally and on behalf of my clients in the past. Nick is absolutely the best securities lawyer in Philly if not the country. The best of the Best!

"Awesome Results"
    

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere congratulations for your awesome results. I want to acknowledge my appreciation and respect for their splendid professionalism and knowledge you have shown in handling the laws (previous and present), for arbitration over fraud litigations.

"More than most lawyers"
    

Mr. Guiliano is highly accomplished securities lawyer. He helped us secure a wonderful result in case where my husband and I lost almost all our lifesavings. He is also high compassionate, and did more than most lawyers have ever done for us, as he seems that he cares.

Mary S. (Avvo)
"Incredibly Resourceful"
    

Nick was incredibly resourceful and professional. His understanding of securities and investment fraud is unparalleled. He is indeed connected with all the powers to be , and is able to provide intellectual and cogent insights. He is tenacious in fighting for his clients, and will never relent. I was able to follow his recommendations and am glad I did.

Mark C. (Avvo)
"Superb Representation"
    

Mr. Guiliano (Nicholas) represented my mother and I in an investment case where it appeared the agent was preying on elderly people and steering them to improper investments to reap commissions. Mr Guilano did an excellent job of preparing the case and representing us. Although the case settled out of court, it was the best outcome expected for several technical reasons out of his control. He always kept us informed and provided sound recommendations. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Guiliano for any investment related case.

Bob W. (Avvo)
"Recommend Him Strongly"
    

I used Mr. Guiliano for a investment fraud case and he did a very good job. I got a good deal of my money back that had been lost due to risky investments I was put into by a prominent company. It was not a really big case, yet Mr. Guiliano was interested and responsive and kept on top of things for me. I would recommend him strongly.

Anne H. (Avvo)
"His Ability And Advice Paid Off"
    

We called Mr. Guiliano after reading his article in Forbes magazine. Although we though the statue of limitations might have run out on our case, we were thrilled when he took our case. Against the odds, he was able to get a settlement for us. He kept us informed and advised us on the proper course of action. We always felt confident with his ability and advice and it paid off. Highly recommend.

Cris (Avvo)
"Ability To Think Outside The Box"
    

Nick Guiliano came highly recommended to me and I was very fortunate that he agreed to take my case. His knowledge of the law and his ability to think outside the box amazed me more and more as my case progressed. His aggressive style and total dedication to me and my case gave me the confidence that we were going to prevail and we did. He is one of the few Attorneys that does not finish his work at end of the day. He was always thinking of ways to use his expertise and knowledge on my behalf. On a personal note, he is a very down to earth guy who makes you very comfortable and at ease. He gave me the ability to sleep at night knowing that my case was in his hands. I will always recommend him without any reservations. In my book he is “the Best”

Jerry V. (Avvo)
"Successful in Winning"
    

Nicholas Guiliano was successful in winning a case against one of the firms where I had invested. I had a safe investment until a young eager stock broker took over my account and slowly kept putting my money in risky stocks, all while I was on disability. Nick was able to get me a portion of my money back within 2 months. He always was available to speak, and very courteous. I am so grateful to have found Nick. Thank you Nick!
Jill I. (Avvo)

"Absolutely Fantastic"
    

Nick represented me when a stock broker took advantage of the money I had in my portfolio. He did an unbelievable job because most people thought I did not have a leg to stand on. He really knows his field. I am really thankful that I met Nick because he did a phenomenal job. I would highly recommend him.

Theresa S.
"Dependable and Accessible"
    

Philadelphia has lived up to it's reputation as having the best attorneys in the Country. I had been told I had a problem of having a Hedge Fund investment. He went to a lot of time and trouble to not take my case. What I really appreciate is his work ethic. He was very kind to me not only with the generosity of his time, but with his words of support. No civilian, like myself, wants a lawsuit but if I ever needed one, it is Mr, Guiliano who I would call upon to represent me. He is a good man.

Kathleen (Avvo)

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